Latest Press

After 32 years as president of GMTA (German Machine Tools of America), formerly American Wera, Walter Friedrich is stepping down, having appointed Michael Rose to be his successor as the new president and CEO at GMTA.

Mr. Friedrich was one of the first three employees when GMTA—American Wera at the time—was formed in 1991. He started his career at Pittler Maschinenfabrik where he advanced from toolmaker to NC programmer, eventually transferring to Chester, Connecticut in 1984 to support the North American operations of the company.  He later joined Liebherr in 1986, where he was project manager within the automation group.

On January 30 of this year, he spoke with the company’s board of directors and decided to step down. The change was effective April 1^st.

Mr. Rose brings twenty-plus years of machine tool experience to the new post, having been most recently employed as the Director of Sales for a leading German machine tool builder.  Mr. Friedrich is confident that Mr. Rose is fully prepared to handle all his new responsibilities. “Michael’s experience within the Automotive sector as a Key Account Manager and most recently as Director of Sales, has prepared him well for his future responsibilities within GMTA.  I’m sure he will continue the company’s expansion.”

Mr. Rose is grateful for this opportunity, adding, “My objective is to continue the tradition of excellence established by Mr. Friedrich, while at the same time creating additional growth opportunities for the organization.”

For more information:

German Machine Tools of America
4630 Freedom Drive
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
www.gmtamerica.com

ANCA’s dynamic new FX-RFID automated regrinding solution runs mixed tool batches lights out

Automated regrinding solutions have gained popularity among tool service providers due to their efficiency and cost-effectiveness in saving time, manual labor, and resources.

With the ANCA RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) regrinding solution, tools of various types and diameters and from different orders can be dynamically loaded, rather than having to sort them by diameter or customer as was previously necessary in mixed batches.

ANCA recently introduced its new FX-RFID solution, extending the popular RFID workflow to the FX Linear platform, unveiling it at IMTS 2022.

Tool service providers are increasingly turning towards automated solutions for unattended regrinding.  Australian tool manufacturer Carbitool, cite the process efficiencies, ease of use, and lights out capabilities gained with the automation solution. This first installation in Australia provides valuable insights into the technology and its advantages.

Andreas Sommer, ANCA Product Manager explains: “ANCA provides a range of automated regrinding solutions for mixed batches, including collet loading with Nikken collets. This entry-level solution is available on the FX5 with the AR300 robot and allows for the tool and collet to be changed together. The Loadermate software sets up a mixed batch of tools for unattended operation.”

Regrinding solutions to fit your needs

ANCA also provides the option of collet changing with RFID technology, which was previously only available on the MX platform. This feature has now been extended to the FX5 and FX7 models, allowing customers to select the regrinding solution that best fits their business needs in terms of both capacity demands and budget.

While some resharpening services aim to run their machines unattended for a brief period with only a small mixed batch of tools, many medium-sized companies seek to enhance their tool loading capacities and flexibility. ANCA’s RFID solution is designed to meet the needs of medium-sized tool service providers, enabling them to run their machines unattended for several hours, or even overnight.

How the RFID automation solution works

The FX-RFID solution uses two pallets and a pallet top with a maximum capacity of 88 tools. According to Andreas, “Regrinding an endmill or a similar cutting tool takes an average of five to six minutes. With a rate of 10 tools per hour, it’s easy to estimate the potential for unattended lights-out regrinding to increase machine utilization and productivity.”

ANCA’s Dynamic Tool Group Manager programming station enables preparation of any combination of tools from different customers for regrinding. With the RFID workflow, tools can be loaded into the machine without the need for pre-programming individual pallet pockets. The RFID and tool carrier can be placed anywhere on the RFID pallet top, and the tool holder’s RFID code is used to locate the assigned program.

Every tool will be assessed at the workstation, where skilled operators select and modify the required grinding program. The individual program reference is then encoded onto an RFID tool holder, which is placed in a pallet along with the tool for the grinding machine. Customer names and job numbers can be added to each tool holder, making it easier to identify the original customer order after grinding.

During the running schedule, tools can be added, removed, or rearranged within the pallet. The job will terminate when an empty pocket is detected, indicating the end of the pallet.

When the machine picks up the tool with the RFID tool holder, it scans the RFID code and automatically retrieves the corresponding grinding program, sets all grinding parameters, and loads the correct wheel pack. If a collet change is needed, the machine executes it automatically.

The RFID tool holder is then parked at an interchange station, and the tool is loaded for regrinding. Meanwhile, the robot picks up the next tool and scans the RFID code, all while the previous tool is being automatically reground.

Every FX machine with an RFID package comes with an extension to the machine canopy and is fitted with a Fanuc 200iD robot. The following components enable the dynamic loading:

• Dynamic Tool Group Manager
• RFID assembly (Sick reader, interchange station)
• Bench mounted scanning station
• Schunk collet adapter, collet rack to hold up to 6 bayonet collets
• RFID pallet top (88 tool capacity) and RFID tool carriers

Visit the ANCA Technology Days in Wixom, Michigan on May 9 and 10 to see their RFID technology in person.

Other highlights will include:

• MX7 ULTRA – Achieving next generation accuracy and quality
• The CPX In-process OD Measurement System
• AUTOMARKX: ANCA’s Automatic Laser Marking removes costly manual handling
• GCX LINEAR: Gear up for the EV revolution
• FX7 RFID and LASERULTRA
• EDG3 – The best solution for the production of PCD, Carbide and HSS Tools

For further information, please contact:

Amanda Bakun
Marketing & Communications Manager – Americas
248-497-1168
amanda.bakun@anca.com

ANCA is a market leading manufacturer of CNC grinding machines. It was founded in 1974 in Melbourne, Australia where the company still has its global headquarters. ANCA has offices in the UK, Germany, China, Thailand, India, Japan, Brazil and the USA as well as a comprehensive network of representatives and agents worldwide.

ANCA CNC grinders are used for manufacturing precision cutting tools and components across a diverse range of competitive industries including cutting tool manufacture, automotive, aerospace, electronics and medical.

Guill Tool, the global leader in extrusion tooling, recently announced the availability of its Spiderless Pipe Die. This new offering utilizes precision tooling to provide increased material savings compared to conventional basket dies for pipe extrusions.

In the coming years, the global market for pipes used in irrigation/sewage systems and industrial applications is expected to grow. This increased demand for pipes is driven by the increasing need for water and wastewater infrastructure, as well as the growth of industrialization and urbanization. These factors are expected to drive demand for pipes in emerging economies such as China, India and Brazil, as well as in developed markets including the U.S. and Europe.

Used by tube and pipe producers for larger diameter capabilities, this new pipe die is capable of providing a finished extrusion with OD from 2”-15”.  It’s offered in 4140 steel or stainless with heat treating.

The company’s Spiderless Pipe Die design differentiates itself from a basket die with its focus on precision tooling gained from decades of experience in medical tubing, flow analysis and Guill’s ISO 9001 and AS9100 (Aerospace) quality systems. The significance of the Guill Spiderless Pipe Die becomes evident when considering material savings.

In general, the cost of the polymer material can range from 50% to 70% of the total cost of producing polymer pipes. The cost of other materials such as additives, fillers and reinforcements, as well as the cost of energy, labor, equipment and overhead also contribute to the total production cost.

In some cases, the cost of energy, particularly electricity and natural gas, can be a significant part of the total cost of production, especially for large-scale production facilities. In other cases, labor costs in regions with high labor costs, can significantly impact the cost of production.

Also a factor is that the cost of the raw polymer can be affected by market fluctuations in the price of oil, impacting the cost of petrochemicals used in the production of polymers. Additionally, the cost can also be influenced by supply and demand factors and global trade dynamics.

Guill’s Spiderless Pipe Die is now available to meet the needs of its customers as they consider all the factors needed to remain competitive in pipe production.  This product was entirely conceived, designed, engineered, manufactured and tested at the Guill factory in West Warwick, Rhode Island.

For additional information, please visit:
https://www.guill.com/series/900-series/

For more information, please contact:

Tom Baldock, Sales Manager, Extrusion
Guill Tool & Engineering
10 Pike Street
West Warwick, RI 02893
USA
Phone:  401-465-5526
tbaldock@guill.com

John Legleu, Exact Metrology Product Manager, provides insights into the advancements and benefits of CT technology, especially as it relates to the future of the aerospace industry

Exact Metrology: A Division of In-Place Machining Company, a comprehensive 3D metrology service provider and hardware sales company, through its product manager John Legleu, details the uses of CT scanning technology across various industries, highlighting especially how CT serves additive manufacturing and how it will change the aerospace industry.

Computed tomography (CT), also known as industrial x-ray and industrial imaging, is used to obtain 3-dimensional (3D) results by placing an object on a rotational stage between an x-ray tube and x-ray detector, rotating the object 360 degrees and capturing images at specific intervals—such as every degree or half degree.  For its services to clients, Exact Metrology uses CT technology in almost every industry, including aerospace, automotive, medical, injection molding, plastics, additive manufacturing and electronics.

Its most often used scanners are the ZEISS METROTOM 6 scout and GE V TOME XM 300Kv. The METROTOM 6 scout digitizes complex parts including the internal geometries at the finest level of detail. Users obtain a complete 3D image for GD&T analysis or nominal-actual comparisons. The metrology CT excels in digitizing very small plastic parts. The GE V TOME scanner is a versatile X-ray microfocus CT system for 3D metrology and analysis with up to 300 kV / 500 W.

According to Legleu, the technology offers numerous benefits, such as higher accuracy/resolution, non-destructive ways to obtain true dimensional data and scanning multiple parts in a single scan. In addition, CT scanning requires very little time to capture data and troubleshoot parts and also offers multiple uses with one scan (void analysis, inspection, volume, porosity, reverse engineering etc.). In contrast to conventional tactile coordinate measurement techniques, a CT acquires all surface points simultaneously —on even the most complex objects.

The technology does bring challenges with it, namely due to high-density materials that are difficult to scan. In addition, parts that have more than one material are challenging to surface. The size and weight of parts are also limited.

Legleu points out how CT has already evolved in the rapidly emerging additive manufacturing industry, making scanning faster, with higher resolution and better accuracy.  Although used primarily in additive manufacturing to find porosity or unformed materials within printed parts, CT scanning can also be used to analyze the raw material for 3D printing, such as powdered metals or filaments.

He concludes by stating, “I predict that aerospace will begin to use CT exclusively to inspect all additive manufactured parts. Presently, CT is considered an “emerging technology” in aerospace but that is likely to change within the next few years. All predictions show a growth rate of 7.5% between 2021 and 2028, increasing from $460 million to $765.8 million.”

Exact Metrology: A Division of In-Place Machining Company, is ISO9001, AS9100 Certified as well as ITAR Registered. 

Exact Metrology: A Division of In-Place Machining Company, with facilities in Cincinnati, Ohio, Moline, Illinois and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, plus affiliated offices throughout the country, is a comprehensive metrology services provider, offering customers 3D and CT scanning, reverse engineering, quality inspection, product development and 2D drawings. The company also provides turnkey metrology solutions, including equipment sales and lease/rental arrangements.   

In-Place Machining Company: On-Site Machining Solutions In-Place, Any Place in the World.

In-Place Machining Company, with seventeen locations across North America, is the premier provider of high-precision engineered on-site machining, in-shop industrial machining, metrology solutions, machine alignment, and large scale cutting & drilling services for a wide range of renewable energy, aerospace, industrial manufacturing, marine, and military customers throughout the world.

For more information, please contact: 

John Legleu
11575 Goldcoast Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45249
Phone: 513-813-4207
Mobile: 513-504-8092
www.exactmetrology.com
johnl@exactmetrology.com

Besides showcasing the ATOS Q and Absolute Arm, the company will present the new T-SCAN hawk 2

Exact Metrology: A Division of In-Place Machining Company and a comprehensive 3D metrology service provider and hardware sales company, will be exhibiting at the MetalCasting Congress and present innovative solutions from ZEISS, GOM and Hexagon in booth 815.

Produced by the American Foundry Society, this unique event is taking place between April 25-27 at the Huntington Convention Center in Cleveland, Ohio. The program offers exhibits, interactive demonstrations, and a direct connection with metalcasters, top suppliers and service providers. Present at the Exact Metrology booth will be Dean Solberg, Vice President of Metrology Sales and Services, Darin Sherry, Regional Sales Manager and David Nichols, Applications Engineer. The advanced metrology instruments that will be demonstrated in the Exact Metrology booth are the T-Scan hawk 2 from ZEISS, the GOM ATOS Q, and the Absolute Arm from Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence.

The ZEISS T-SCAN hawk 2 is the next generation lightweight portable 3D scanner with metrology-grade precision and ease of use. Working distance can be controlled with a new projection mode. Furthermore, the satellite mode can scan up to multiple meters, eliminating the need for classical built-in photogrammetry with coded markers. The T-SCAN hawk 2 features four buttons to start and navigate the workflow directly. Seamless adjustments for resolution and field of view are applied for fine details, large objects, deep pockets, confined spaces, or hard-to-reach areas.  This scanner supports scanning on a wide range of materials and surfaces, delivering precise 3D data.

GOM ATOS Q is a flexible 3D scanner for complex measurement and inspection tasks in different industries. The scanner delivers fully traceable measurement results, especially in harsh conditions. It captures quality information quickly and with a high degree of detail, providing a reliable basis to easily interpret the information. ScanCobot, a mobile automated 3D scanning system, easily integrates with ATOS Q.

The Absolute Arm from Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence has an IP54 protection rating, a market first for portable measuring arms. It features an environment-related improvement that sees the system’s maximum operating temperature increased to 45°C.  There are also improvements to the functionality of the Absolute Arm wrist display, now upgraded to a touchscreen, and the RDS software that drives it.

Besides the mentioned products, Exact Metrology also offers dimensional metrology services, including post processing options of reverse engineering and inspection. With First Article Inspection, which is a design verification process, measurements for each manufactured feature of a part are generated.  Thus, a manufacturer can ensure all specifications are to design specifications before manufacturing a part.

Visit Exact Metrology in booth 815 during MetalCasting Congress.

In-Place Machining Company: On-Site Machining Solutions In-Place, Any Place in the World.

In-Place Machining Company, with facilities in Wisconsin, Washington, Virginia, Ohio, and Ontario, Canada, is the premier provider of high-precision engineered on-site machining, metrology, and large scale cutting & drilling services for a wide range of renewable energy, aerospace, industrial, and military customers throughout the world.          

Exact Metrology: A Division of In-Place Machining Company, is ISO9001, AS9100 Certified as well as ITAR Registered.

Exact Metrology: A Division of In-Place Machining Company, with facilities in Cincinnati, Ohio, Moline, Illinois and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, plus affiliated offices throughout the country, is a comprehensive metrology services provider, offering customers 3D and CT scanning, reverse engineering, quality inspection, product development and 2D drawings. The company also provides turnkey metrology solutions, including equipment sales and lease/rental arrangements.

GOM GmbH

GOM, a company of the ZEISS Group, specializes in industrial 3D coordinate measuring technology, 3D computed tomography and 3D testing. From product development to production and worldwide distribution, GOM offers machines and systems for manual and automated 3D digitizing, evaluation software, training and professional support from a single source. In industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy and consumer goods, more than 17,000 GOM system installations are in use internationally. At more than 60 locations and with more than 1,200 metrology specialists, GOM guarantees profound advice and first-class service. Since mid-2019, GOM has been a part of the ZEISS Group and has formed the Center of Excellence for optical metrology. With more than 31,000 employees in 50 countries and annual revenue totaling more than 6.4 billion euros, ZEISS is an internationally leading technology enterprise operating in the fields of optics and optoelectronics.

Exact Metrology: A Division of In-Place Machining Company and a comprehensive 3D metrology service provider and hardware sales company, exhibited at POWERGEN International together with In-Place Machining Company (IPM), Oasis Alignment Services: A Division of In-Place Machining Company and East Coast Metrology: A Division of In-Place Machining Company in booth 3014. Representatives were on hand to offer solutions for the thermal, hydro, nuclear, wind and diesel industries.

Leica RTC360 used in plants

The show was recently held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. POWERGEN is the largest networking and business hub for generators and solution providers engaged in power generation. Power producers, utilities, EPCs, consultants, OEMs and large-scale energy users gather to discover unparalleled education, peer-to-peer networking and solutions from top providers.

Exact Metrology displayed its Leica RTC360. Manufactured by Leica Geosystems, these portable coordinate measuring machines are designed to measure large-scale objects. The RTC360 3D Reality capture scanner is ideal for professionals managing project complexities with accurate and reliable 3D representations. This scanner effectively combines a high-performance 3D laser scanner with Leica Cyclone Field 360, a mobile device app for edge computing that automatically registers scans in real time and Leica Cyclone REGISTER 360, an office software that integrates the 3D model into the workflow. Additional features include capturing scans, including enriching HDR imagery, in less than two minutes, automatically recording moves from station to station and augmenting data capture with information tags.

Dean Solberg (left), Rob Ellington (middle) and Noel Brekas (far right)

Measurement services displayed by OASIS Alignment Services included 26 power plant (hydro, steam and gas) jobs performed in 2020. Most jobs involved metrology support, with two including mechanical work. In 2021, the total number was 37, most of which were metrology supported, with six jobs including mechanical work. Last year, 29 power plant jobs were performed, two including mechanical work.  To date in 2023, 10 jobs have been accomplished, three involving mechanical work.  Examples of mechanical jobs in the power industry typically include cooling tower fan alignment, pump alignment, replacement of turbine bearings, generator alignment, new coupling installment, gearbox alignment, circular pump alignment, repair of broken shaft and solar generator alignment.  Some metrology alignment jobs comprised inspection of turbine components, monitoring of components during a rebuild, structural movement studies, flatness inspections and others.

Present at the event were Dean Solberg, Vice President of Metrology Sales and Services at Exact Metrology, IPM Sales Managers Noel Brekas, Ronnie Onofry and Rob Ellington, Paul Parry, Director of Sales-Field Machining and Ulises Uscanga, Head of Industrial Plant Solutions at Leica Geosystems.

Dean Solberg highlighted the importance of having East Coast Metrology at the show. “The recent acquisition of East Coast Metrology allows IPM Measurement Group to provide nationwide coverage with metrology services to complement its field machining capabilities. We are excited to continue serving our customers’ needs as their one-stop shop.”

IPM discussed its recent acquisition of East Coast Metrology, which now afford the company nationwide coverage with metrology services to complement its field machining capabilities.

In-Place Machining Company: On-Site Machining Solutions In-Place, Any Place in the World.

In-Place Machining Company, with facilities in Wisconsin, Washington, Virginia, Ohio, and Ontario, Canada, is the premier provider of high-precision engineered on-site machining, metrology, and large scale cutting & drilling services for a wide range of renewable energy, aerospace, industrial, and military customers throughout the world.

Exact Metrology: A Division of In-Place Machining Company, is ISO9001, AS9100 Certified as well as ITAR Registered.

Exact Metrology: A Division of In-Place Machining Company, with facilities in Cincinnati, Ohio, Moline, Illinois and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, plus affiliated offices throughout the country, is a comprehensive metrology services provider, offering customers 3D and CT scanning, reverse engineering, quality inspection, product development and 2D drawings. The company also provides turnkey metrology solutions, including equipment sales and lease/rental arrangements.

OASIS Alignment Services: A Division of In-Place Machining Company

OASIS Alignment Services: A Division of In-Place Machining Company, provides 3-Dimensional Metrology Services, Precision Alignment Inspections and Diagnostics and Mechanical Services across a wide range of industries including aerospace, automotive, power generation, shipbuilding, pulp and paper, converting, printing, plastics, textiles and more. OASIS has completed thousands of successful projects since its inception in 1982 and continues to set industry standards in alignment procedures, specialized tooling and reporting techniques. OASIS operates service centers in New Hampshire, North Carolina, Florida, Ohio, Wisconsin, California, Washington, and Ontario and Québec, Canada. For more visit www.oasisalignment.com

East Coast Metrology: A Division of In-Place Machining Company

East Coast Metrology is a globally recognized full-service contract measurement company specializing in 3D scanning and modeling, reverse engineering & design, training and certification, instrument calibrations, equipment rentals, integration & alignment services. Headquartered in Topsfield, Massachusetts, ECM hosts an ISO/IEC 17025 Accredited Laboratory where they perform instrument calibrations, repairs, and CMM part inspection and programming. For more visit www.eastcoastmetrology.com

For information, please contact:

EXACT METROLOGY, INC.
Dean Solberg
20515 Industry Avenue
Brookfield, WI 53045
Local: 262-533-0800
www.exactmetrology.com
deans@exactmetrology.com

EXACT METROLOGY, INC.
Steve Young
11575 Goldcoast Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45249
Local: 513.831.6620
Toll Free: 866.722.2600
www.exactmetrology.com
stevey@exactmetrology.com

The new EFC-02 combines a century of Suhner’s abrasives and material removal expertise with smart automation for the highest surface quality results.

Rome, GA – Recognizing the role robotics plays in adding efficiency and lowering production costs for manufacturers of all types and sizes, Suhner continues to expand its robotics offering. The fully electric EFC-02 delivers precise, constant force throughout robotic grinding, sanding and deburring processes – resulting in superior, consistent surface quality.

EFC-02 device with belt sander for robotic material removal

Introducing EFC-02 – Suhner’s Electric Force Compliance System
Active compliance for robotic material removal

With today’s supply chain and labor challenges, manufacturers of all types and sizes are looking for solutions to help them do more with fewer resources. That’s what smart manufacturing is all about – and why Suhner is expanding its suite of robotic grinding accessories and tools with the fully electric EFC-02 active compliance system.

Smart Automation for High Surface Quality Results

Exact contact force with the surface is the single most crucial factor in robotic grinding, sanding and deburring processes. It’s also one of the biggest challenges, especially for hard-to-reach areas. Thoughtfully designed based on Suhner’s decades of material removal process know-how – the EFC-02 helps overcome that challenge.

As with any end-of-arm tooling, the EFC-02 connects a grinding machine – angle grinders, orbital sanders, angle polishers, straight grinders and others – to the robot. What makes Suhner’s system unique, however, is its compact design and fully electric operation.

The lightest and smallest in its category, the EFC-02 can be used for material removal or surface finishing even in tight or narrow spaces often found when processing stainless tanks and vessels for the food and pharma industries or fiberglass bathtubs and sinks. The all-electric technology also allows high-frequency measurements to monitor force and acceleration throughout the process. An advanced control algorithm then dynamically adjusts force and automates grinding processes based on pre-programmed parameters.

The result? Constant contact force with each movement from start to finish for a consistent surface quality – regardless of the surface type, shape, size or orientation.

In Line with Industry 4.0 Standards to Support Digital Transformation

Robotic processes are no longer just for mass production. As the technology has evolved, robotics have become easier to use and more flexible – making them ideal for both small- and medium-sized manufacturers looking to add efficiency, lower production costs or both.

Suhner engineered the EFC-02 with this in mind, giving users:

• Simple robot programming for setting up even complex processes using an intuitive web-based interface or Fieldbus communication. This includes defining target force, payload and stroke values.
• Advanced functionality that is in line with the vision behind Industry 4.0. For instance, a visual LED indicator on the EFC-02 tells users whether the grinding wheel is in contact with the surface or not and when the stroke is at 50% to ensure maximum compensation, among other critical operational information. The EFC-02 even lets users know when maintenance is needed.

One stop for a custom, end-to-end solution

The end-of-arm EFC-02 active compliance system is fully compatible with Suhner’s end effectors, including angle grinders, orbital sanders, angle polishers and straight grinders. Optional automatic changers for abrasives or belts, which integrate easily with the EFC-02, are also available. By storing and dispensing new abrasives for pickup by a sander – these automatic changers effectively help speed processes and increase productivity.

Suhner also gives its customers access to one of the most comprehensive ranges of abrasives in the market from all the industry’s leading manufacturers. Plus, Suhner’s ABRACare customized, volume-based pay-as-you-go inventory management program ensures you always have the abrasives you need.

Working with Suhner means more than having access to industry-leading tools and abrasives – manufacturers also have access to a global network of seasoned abrasives and material removal experts ready to help you solve virtually any challenge.

Put Suhner to Work for You Today

The EFC-02 combines over a century of Suhner’s abrasives and material removal expertise with smart automation for the highest surface quality results. Its compact size, all-electric technology and simple programming make it possible to replicate and automate most grinding, polishing, sanding and deburring on a variety of surfaces. This gives manufacturers a cost-effective, low-maintenance solution for replacing many time-consuming and tedious manual processes – saving time and money.

Get in touch with your local Suhner representative to take control and let the robots grind.

The company will showcase the EFC-02 at Booth #1850 at the upcoming AUTOMATE 2023, May 22-25, in Detroit, MI.

For more information, contact:

Suhner USA, Inc.
43 Anderson Road S.W.
Rome, GA 30161
706-235-8046
machining.us@suhner.com
https://robotic-grinding.suhner.com/en/

By Jan Irzyk, AIMS Product Manager at ANCA CNC Machines

The tool manufacturing industry embraces automation solutions at an unprecedented pace. This is a worldwide trend driven by several factors – labor shortage, increasing labor costs, the need for maximizing uptime, push for 24/7 machine availability and customers demanding shorter lead times. Manufacturers need to be more flexible and responsive than ever before.

ANCA has been providing a wide range of automation solutions for many years. One of the recent offerings in this space is our ANCA Integrated Manufacturing System, or AIMS for short. AIMS is an ecosystem of individual modules – or building blocks – which could be configured to build a tailored automated tool manufacturing system. Modularity and flexibility mean that it caters to both small and large enterprise type manufacturers.  The system could be designed to be very simple, using a trolley for manual pallet and tool transfer with basic ERP connectivity. It could also be a complex, fully autonomous production solution which requires minimal human intervention.

AIMS AutoFetch robot transfers materials between integrated processes

One of the most noticeable components of a fully automated AIMS cell is AutoFetch – the AMR robot responsible for transferring pallets between the setting station called AutoSet, to the tool grinder. It also automatically transfers single tools for spot check measurements outside of the grinder. As you can imagine, there’s a lot of traffic and the AutoFetch can get very busy. An AIMS cell is typically configured within a footprint of the existing factory with adjoining areas where standard, manual operations are taking place. This is a great flexibility feature but also raises many questions about how autonomous operation can function alongside the traditional production plant with frequent foot traffic.

There’s no need to fence off the AIMS area thanks to unique technology used with the AutoFetch robot. There are generally two types of automatic vehicles used on the factory floor – AGV and AMR.  AutoFetch is an AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robot) which is different to AGV (Automatic Guided Vehicle). The main difference is the way both units navigate their way around the factory. An AGV always follows a predetermined route which is defined by using various guiding aids like strips embedded in the floor, or reflectors fitted to the walls around the route. The AMR on the other hand, travels from one location to another using its array of sensors and initially scanned map of the area. It doesn’t require any additional infrastructure to transfer material from A to B. You just scan and map the relevant area during AutoFetch setup, mark the load and unload positions and then the robot, using sophisticated algorithms, will find the optimal way from one point to the other.

Autonomous material transfer with AutoFetch – safety implications

One of the most common questions we’re being asked is related to safety of the AutoFetch. This is understandable since AutoFetch operates alongside personnel in the factory. The good news is the AutoFetch AMR is designed to safely operate in a factory environment where people are present.  The AMR moves from one station to another using an optimized route, and it constantly scans the immediate area for unexpected objects.  When an object is detected, the AutoFetch will stop and navigate around it.  An array of sensors – laser scanners, 3D cameras and proximity sensors – are used for this purpose. For extra security, an AMR prohibited area could be defined on the map to exclude autonomous traffic altogether.  In addition, the AutoFetch could be programmed to reduce speed in certain areas and warn nearby staff with audio warnings such as beeper, horns, or pre-recorded spoken messages.

72% of manufacturers report accidents related to using traditional means of material transport like pallet jacks, trolleys or forklifts. The use of AMRs contributes to increased safety in the factory and reduced accidents due to the elimination of human factors like fatigue, lack of focus or awareness.

To learn more about how AIMS can help in your factory, contact your local ANCA representative.

Jan Irzyk is currently focused on ANCA Integrated Manufacturing System (AIMS ). He is driving the expansion of the ANCA portfolio with ground-breaking solutions in line with ANCA’s innovative spirit of helping tool manufacturers maximize their outcomes and face current challenges. 

Jan has an academic background in Mechanical Engineering that is applied in commercial and B2B professional experience, and extensive international experience across various manufacturing verticals providing automation, integration and traceability solutions. All of these apply to modern tool manufacturing with the concepts of Industry 4.0, Smart Factory and lights-out manufacturing that have been receiving a lot of traction in recent years.

For further information, please contact:

Amanda Bakun
Marketing & Communications Manager – Americas
248-497-1168
amanda.bakun@anca.com

ANCA is a market leading manufacturer of CNC grinding machines. It was founded in 1974 in Melbourne, Australia where the company still has its global headquarters. ANCA has offices in the UK, Germany, China, Thailand, India, Japan, Brazil and the USA as well as a comprehensive network of representatives and agents worldwide.

ANCA CNC grinders are used for manufacturing precision cutting tools and components across a diverse range of competitive industries including cutting tool manufacture, automotive, aerospace, electronics and medical.